Job losses in Mosinee

Another central Wisconsin factory is closing. Medford-based Schield Family Brands said Friday that it will close its Mosinee window making factory by the end of next year, affecting 556 workers. Production will be shifted to the company’s plants in Ladysmith, Medford and Park Falls but it’s not clear if Mosinee workers will be able to transfer. The company cited sustained weakness in the housing market and the union’s refusal to accept a company proposal to extend the current labor agreement. Company officials declined further comment. Union officials could not be reached for comment. The state had already dispatched a rapid response team to begin serving Wausau Paper employees. The same process will likely occur for Schield within the next week.